Tag Archives: adrenaline

Before I am talking about the two main issues in the UK with the AAI, I am listing the key facts about the 3 different AAI (Adrenaline Auto Injectors) available in the UK, EpiPen (R), JEXT and the Emerade. The latter is the latest addition to the market and comes in 3 doses and 2 needle sizes, which is unique.

Technique: Push firmly against the outer portion of the thigh. When you push Jext firmly against your thigh, a spring activated plunger will be released, which pushes the hidden needle through the seal at the end of the black needle shield, into the thigh muscle and injects a dose of adrenaline. Leave in for 10sec, rub in for 10sec.

Storage: Although Jext does not need any special storage instructions, it should be handled with care ensuring that it does not freeze.

Please keep in mind when receiving a prescription of any of the AAI, ensure you and everyone else taking care of the patient (including nursery staff, school staff, friends, family members) is properly trained on the device. Especially, when the prescription was changed to a different brand.

Unfortunately, there is no mention of the Emerade, which is the latest addition to the UK market. Their manufacturer is currently trying to satisfy rising demand by increasing their capacities as soon as possible.

The reason for the shortage of the AAI in the UK may be due to the fact that EpiPen has been increasingly demanded since Jext had issues with their AAI end of last year/beginning of this year.

From the Notice of Action, it seems the Regulators will be taking investigation into the needle sizes. In other words: Do AAI on the UK market fulfill the requirement of safe and efficient administration (true i.m. injection of the right amount) of adrenaline into the patient’s muscle? I am sure we will be hearing much more about the needle size issue.

What are your thoughts? Do these issues bother you? Would like to hear about your concerns.

Disclaimer:

The information provided is given in good faith. Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy. All patients are different, and specific cases need specific advise. There is no substitute for good medical advice provided by an allergy specialist.